Back Forty Barbeque: From Small-Town Beginnings to Nationally Renowned Brisket Legends

In the heart of Athabasca, Alberta, where the air is crisp and the community tight-knit, a humble dream took root in 2018. Back Forty Barbeque was born from a passion for authentic Southern-style BBQ, a love for slow-cooked, smoky flavors, and a vision to bring this culinary art to the Canadian North. Today, this dream has transformed into a legend, celebrated for its mouth-watering smoked beef brisket and a range of BBQ delights that have captivated the taste buds of a nation.

The Humble Beginnings

Back Forty Barbeque started as a small venture in Athabasca, a town known for its natural beauty and serene landscapes. The founders, driven by a love for BBQ and a desire to introduce Southern-style cooking to Alberta, began experimenting with smoking techniques and recipes. They meticulously honed their craft, drawing inspiration from traditional BBQ methods perfected in the American South.

Their commitment to quality was evident from the beginning. Every piece of meat was carefully selected, seasoned, and smoked to perfection. The process was labor-intensive and time-consuming, but the results were extraordinary. Word of mouth quickly spread through Athabasca and the surrounding communities. Locals couldn’t get enough of the tender, flavorful brisket that seemed to melt in their mouths.

Building a Reputation

As Back Forty Barbeque’s reputation grew, so did the demand. What started as a small operation out of a backyard smoker soon required more space and resources. The founders invested in larger smokers and dedicated more time to refining their techniques. They focused on perfecting the balance of smoke, seasoning, and slow cooking that made their brisket so irresistible.

Events and local gatherings became pivotal in spreading the word. From farmer's markets to community festivals, Back Forty Barbeque made its presence known. The lines at their stall grew longer, and the buzz around their food intensified. Customers would travel from neighboring towns, drawn by the promise of the best BBQ north of the 49th parallel.

Pioneering Delivery Service

In 2020, the world faced unprecedented challenges with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Like many businesses, Back Forty Barbeque had to adapt to the new reality. Recognizing the importance of keeping their community fed and the business afloat, they pioneered a local delivery service. This initiative brought their legendary BBQ directly to the doorsteps of Athabasca residents and the surrounding areas.

The delivery service was an instant hit. Families stuck at home found comfort and joy in the delicious, smoky flavors of Back Forty Barbeque. The founders ensured that every order met their high standards, maintaining the quality and taste that had made them a local favorite. This innovative approach not only sustained the business during a difficult time but also solidified their bond with the community.

Expanding Horizons: Online Delivery

Building on the success of their local delivery service, Back Forty Barbeque decided to take a bold step forward. In 2024, they launched an online delivery service, allowing customers from across Canada to experience their legendary smoked beef brisket and other BBQ specialties. The logistics were challenging, but their commitment to quality ensured that every order arrived fresh and ready to enjoy.

The introduction of online delivery was a game-changer. It not only expanded their customer base but also solidified their reputation as a national treasure. BBQ lovers from Vancouver to St. John’s could now savor the authentic flavors that originated in a small Alberta town.

The Legacy Continues

Today, Back Forty Barbeque stands as a testament to what passion, dedication, and a commitment to quality can achieve. From their modest beginnings in Athabasca to becoming a household name across Canada, their journey is an inspiration. They continue to innovate, introducing new products and expanding their menu, all while staying true to the principles that made them a legend.

Their story is one of perseverance, community support, and an unwavering love for BBQ. As they look to the future, Back Forty Barbeque remains dedicated to bringing the best Southern-style BBQ to Canadians, one perfectly smoked brisket at a time.

Whether you’re a long-time fan or a first-time customer, there’s no denying the magic of Back Forty Barbeque. It’s more than just food; it’s a celebration of tradition, craftsmanship, and the rich, smoky flavors that have made them a legend in the world of BBQ.